South Korea has introduced what it calls the world’s first comprehensive artificial intelligence (AI) law, the AI Basic Act, aiming to boost trust and safety in the sector.
Reuters reported that the law takes effect ahead of Europe’s phased European Union AI Act, which will roll out through 2027.
Key provisions require human oversight for “high-impact” AI in areas such as nuclear safety, water, transport, healthcare and finance, and mandate clear labelling and advance notice for AI-generated content, particularly when outputs are hard to distinguish from reality.
Violations, such as failing to label generative AI, can incur fines up to 30 million won.
Science Minister Bae Kyung-hoon said the law provides a “critical institutional foundation” for South Korea’s ambition to rank among the top-three global AI powerhouses, while the ministry pledged to continually review measures to minimise industry burden.
